What Causes Heartburn & How to Prevent it

There are times when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) doesn’t work as it should. After you eat, the LES is supposed to close the stomach off from the esophagus, the pathway from your throat. But sometimes it doesn’t. That might be because it’s weak, but often it’s because you ate too much of the wrong stuff.

The result is heartburn, a burning sensation behind the breastbone, bloating, and an acid taste in the back of your throat. Here’s what you can do to prevent it.

• Especially before bed, skip acidic foods like tomatoes and oranges, which add to the acid your stomach produces.
• Don’t load up on fatty foods like onion rings and French fries. They are difficult to digest and remain in the stomach longer, says the National Heartburn Alliance.
• Be wary of restaurant dinners. They are usually high in fat and portions are huge. If heartburn is a problem for you, take part of the meal home. A very large meal makes the stomach produce more
  acid.
• Watch what you drink. Soda, wine and coffee relax the LES. So does chocolate.
• Don’t eat a big meal just before going to bed. Lying down makes it easier for acid to slip into the esophagus.
• Lose weight. Obesity causes stomach pressure.
• Stop smoking. It causes the LES to relax.
• Loosen your belt to decrease pressure on the abdomen. Avoid tight clothes.